Principal Scientist, Translational Immunology & High-Throughput Precision Biomarkers

Job Description The Data, A.I. and Genome Sciences Department is seeking a highly motivated and passionate Principal Scientist to join our Genome Science research team. In this role, you will develop and execute large‑scale translational immunology studies on human biospecimens in support of companion diagnostic (CDx) development and biomarker discovery. Key Responsibilities Lead translational immunology studies leveraging human biospecimens to support biomarker discovery and companion diagnostic (CDx) development in Discovery Immunology. Design and execute hands‑on laboratory experiments for large‑scale studies using PBMCs, immune‑cell activation assays, cytokine profiling, flow cytometry, and single‑cell RNA sequencing. Develop and optimize biomarker assays and workflows to characterize immune cell interactions and identify response‑associated biomarkers. Design and execute experiments for integration of multi‑modal data types such as bulk transcriptomics, single‑cell transcriptomics, flow cytometry, cytokine assays, and other multi‑omics platforms to generate actionable biological insights. Partner with experimental biologists, data scientists, and cross‑functional Discovery Immunology stakeholders to advance translational hypotheses and biomarker strategies. Translate mechanistic biology into clinically relevant hypotheses that inform patient stratification, target engagement, and biomarker‑driven decision‑making. Lead study planning, experimental design, data interpretation, and presentation of findings to internal stakeholders and leadership. Ensure scientific rigor, reproducibility, and quality in all biomarker discovery activities. Evaluate emerging technologies and analytical approaches to strengthen translational immunology capabilities. Collaborate closely with experimental biologists, automation engineers, computational scientists, data analysts, AIML data scientists and therapeutic area subject matter experts to address biological questions, develop experimental strategies, and execute project plans. Mentor and guide junior scientists and contribute to the growth of the Genome Science team. Contribute to scientific publications, internal reports, and presentation materials as needed. Required Qualifications PhD in Immunology, Biology, Molecular Biology, Cell Biology, Biological engineering or related life sciences discipline with 8+ years of industry or pharma research, academia, or a combination of both. Strong background in translational immunology, biomarker discovery, and human biospecimen‑based research. Hands‑on experience with PBMC isolation, assay development using primary immune cells, immune‑cell activation assays, cytokine profiling, and/or flow cytometry. Experience with bulk and/or single‑cell transcriptomics, including experimental design and data interpretation. Demonstrated expertise in biomarker assay development, optimization, and application in translational studies. Experience generating multi‑omics datasets to enable biologically meaningful and clinically relevant insights is preferred. Proven ability to design, execute, and interpret complex studies that connect mechanistic biology to clinical hypotheses. Strong analytical, problem‑solving, and scientific communication skills. Ability to lead scientific projects and collaborate effectively with cross‑functional teams. At least 1-2 years of direct people management experience. Required Skills Assay Development Biomarkers Cell‑Based Assays Cell Culture Techniques Cytokines Cytometry Flow Cytometry Immunology Induced Pluripotent Stem Cell (IPSC) iPS Derived Cells Peripheral Blood Mononuclear Cell (PBMC) Isolation Transcriptomics Preferred Skills Current Employees apply HERE Current Contingent Workers apply HERE Salary and Benefits The salary range for this role is $176,200.00 - $277,300.00. The successful candidate will be eligible for annual bonus and long‑term incentive, if applicable. We offer a comprehensive package of benefits. Available benefits include medical, dental, vision healthcare and other insurance benefits (for employee and family), retirement benefits, including 401(k), paid holidays, vacation, and compassionate and sick days. Equal Employment Opportunity Statement As an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer, we provide equal opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibit discrimination on the basis of race, color, age, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, disability status, or other applicable legally protected characteristics. As a federal contractor, we comply with all affirmative action requirements for protected veterans and individuals with disabilities. For more information about personal rights under the U.S. Equal Opportunity Employment laws, visit EEOC Know Your Rights EEOC GINA Supplement. We are proud to be a company that embraces diversity and inclusion in the workplace. #J-18808-Ljbffr MSD Malaysia